At this moment, Cheng Siyun stepped onto the stage, standing beside her father as they simultaneously pulled back the red silk covering the embroidered piece.
As the silk fell away, "Xiangjiang Spring Dawn Painting" revealed itself to the audience—
the sun was just rising, morning mist swirling around, willows lining both banks of the Xiangjiang River, and distant mountains appearing faintly through the haze, with fishing boats dotting the river surface...
"My goodness!" Ruan Xiaoshuang exclaimed, "This is so beautiful! It looks alive!"
Shen Tong couldn't help but take a few steps closer, captivated by the vibrant essence of the artwork. Just as the audience was immersed in a chorus of admiration, a sharp female voice suddenly rang out:
"Everyone! This 'Xiangjiang Spring Dawn Painting' is a forgery!"
The crowd turned toward the voice to see a young woman in a plain qipao striding confidently to the front row. Her expression was serious, her demeanor dignified, and her eyes were as cool and clear as autumn water.
"I am Li Yun, a disciple of Mr. Zhao Yunlan. Although this embroidery is exquisite, it is certainly not made by Mr. Zhao. The stitching techniques and style are vastly different from his!"
Li Yun's voice, though not loud, resonated like clear water falling on stones.
At her words, the audience erupted in an uproar.
Cheng Jinsheng's face turned from red to pale in an instant, faint veins pulsing at his temples. He opened his mouth, his chest rising and falling slightly, struggling to find an appropriate retort. The woman who called herself Li Yun did not linger; after delivering her statement, she coldly surveyed the room for a moment before turning and walking toward the exit.
Cheng Siyun stood frozen in place as if struck by lightning. Realizing Li Yun was leaving, she suddenly snapped out of her daze and dashed off the stage without regard for her image, chasing after her.
"Li Yun! Wait!"
Cheng Siyun rushed out into the courtyard but saw that the figure in plain attire had already disappeared beyond the door. Back in the main hall, Cheng Jinsheng wiped the cold sweat from his forehead and forced a smile as he gestured for the agitated guests to calm down.
"Dear guests, please remain calm. The accusations made by Ms. Li just now are unfounded. This 'Xiangjiang Spring Dawn Painting' indeed comes from three master artisans; every stitch has been meticulously designed and is certainly not a forgery. We will arrange for authoritative experts to conduct a public appraisal regarding its authenticity and will provide everyone with an explanation. Please rest assured and continue enjoying our other exhibits."
As soon as he finished speaking, the sound of silk and bamboo music filled the exhibition hall once again. Although whispers still circulated among small groups in the crowd, order gradually began to restore itself.
Lin Mingchang exchanged a glance with Shen Tong, and the four of them naturally gathered together.
"I didn't expect this; it's interesting," Lin Mingchang whispered, his eyes still fixed on the suddenly controversial embroidery piece.
At that moment, Cheng Siyun hurried back into the exhibition hall. Her cheeks were flushed, and the strands of hair on her forehead were slightly disheveled from her rush. One hand pressed against her chest as she tried to catch her breath.
Cheng Siyun looked around and spotted Lin Mingchang and the others huddled together, so she quickly walked over.
"I couldn't catch up with Sister Li Yun; she was moving too fast..." Cheng Siyun said anxiously in a low voice. "Let's find a quiet place to talk; it's too crowded here, and it's hard to speak."
With that, Cheng Siyun led the four of them through several exhibition halls until they reached a secluded lounge. She glanced around to ensure no one was nearby before gently closing the door.
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